Croatia is known for its stunning beaches and amazing natural beauty. If you are spending your holiday in Drage in camp Oaza Mira in Dalmatia, you will certainly be delighted by the numerous places with spectacular natural landscapes you can visit during your stay.
Several national parks in Dalmatia are worth visiting. The Kornati National Park is closest to Drage and you can visit it on one of numerous daily boat tours. Known for its crystal-clear waters, this Dalmatia National Park is an archipelago of 89 islands, islets and cliffs.
One of the most unique national park in Dalmatia is Paklenica National Park. This popular destination for hiking and rock climbing, as well as Northern Velebit National Park, will amaze you with breathtaking landscapes, hidden caves and unique flora and fauna.
National Park Kornati
Kornati National Park Croatia offers a one-of-a-kind experience for nature lovers. This breathtaking archipelago is 20 km away from Drage. One of the best ways to explore Kornati is by taking a Kornati National Park boat trip. Daily boat trips are available from Drage, Pakoštane or Biograd in the summer season, allowing its visitors to sail through the scattered islands, offering stunning views of the barren yet beautiful landscapes. Stops are often made at secluded bays, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or simply enjoying the tranquillity of the Adriatic Sea. The boat trips also provide opportunities to visit small fishing villages and taste local seafood delicacies.
The National Park Kornati islands are mostly uninhabited, persevering their wild, untouched charm. The landscape is marked by limestone cliffs, dry stone walls and ancient olive groves, creating a stark contrast to the vibrant blue sea. Whether exploring by boat, hiking or diving, Kornati National Park offers a unique blend of adventure, natural splendour and tranquillity in the heart of Dalmatia.
Known for its rugged beauty, crystal-clear waters, and secluded coves, this place is a paradise for sailors and divers, with its diverse marine life, vibrant coral reefs, and underwater caves.
Distance: 20 km
Time: 1,30 hours (by boat)
National Park Krka
Krka National Park Croatia known for its pristine waterfalls, lush greenery, and cultural heritage is a stunning natural wonder. It is located in the central Dalmatian region and easily accessible from various nearby towns. The National Park Krka distance from Drage is around 40 km, making it a perfect day trip for visitors staying in coastal areas.
The park is famous for its seven magnificent waterfalls, with Skradinski Buk being the most iconic. Swimming in Krka National Park is no longer allowed, particularly around the famous Skradinski Buk waterfall to protect the park's delicate ecosystem and preserve its natural beauty for future generations. While swimming was once a popular activity in the park, the growing number of visitors began to impact the landscapes. Even without swimming, Krka National Park offers an extraordinary experience. Visitors can still enjoy walking along well-maintained wooden paths, taking in breathtaking views of the waterfalls, and exploring cultural landmarks like the Krka Monastery.
There are two main entrances to the park: Skradin and Lozovac. Krka National Park entrance fees vary depending on season, with discounted tickets during off-peak times. From these entrances, visitors can either hike or take a boat ride to explore the park's attractions, which include the Visovac Monastery and Roški Slap waterfall.
Distance: 47 km
Time: 45 minutes (by car)
National Park Plitvice Lakes
National Park Plitvice Lakes in Croatia is one of the country's most iconic natural treasures, renowned for its breathtaking lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush forest. This UNESCO World Heritage site consists of 16 interconnected lakes, divided into upper and lower clusters fed by numerous stunning waterfalls in Plitvice Lakes National Park. The vibrant colours of the water, ranging from emerald, and green to turquoise, create a magical atmosphere that draws nature lovers from around the world.
Plitvice Lakes National Park Croatia in winter offers a unique and serene experience. The waterfalls and lakes often freeze, creating an enchanting winter wonderland of icicles and snow-covered landscapes. The park's wooden pathways remain accessible, allowing visitors to explore this serene winter beauty, far from the busy summer crowds.
For those wondering how to get to Plitvice Lakes National Park Croatia, the park is about 150 kilometres from Drage. The drive takes roughly 2 hours by car, making it a perfect day trip. Buses also connect major cities like Zagreb, Zadar and Split to the park, with routes running year-round.
Whether visiting in summer or winter, Plitvice Lakes National Park offers an unforgettable experience, with stunning waterfalls and scenic trails inviting you on a journey of exploration throughout the whole year.
Distance: 150 km
Time: 2 hours (by car)
Paklenica National Park
Paklenica National Park is renowned for its dramatic canyons, rich biodiversity and outdoor activities. Situated on the southern slopes of the Velebit mountain range, the park is a favourite destination for adventure enthusiasts, offering exciting opportunities for Paklenica National Park climbing. The towering cliffs of Velika Paklenica make it one of Europe's top climbing spots, attracting climbers from all over the world, with routes for both beginners and experienced climbers.
For those who prefer exploring on foot, Paklenica National Park hiking is equally rewarding. The park boasts a variety of well-marked trails, leading through dense forests, past rocky formations, and up to breathtaking viewpoints. The hike through Velika Paklenica Canyon is particularly popular, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and unique rock formations.
The Paklenica National Park weather can vary depending on the season. Spring and autumn offer mild, pleasant temperatures, perfect for climbing and hiking, while summers can be hot but manageable, especially in shaded forest areas. Winters are cooler, with some snow at higher altitudes.
Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquillity, Paklenica National Park offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and outdoor challenges, making it a must-visit destination in Croatia.
Distance: 72 km
Time: 1 hour (by car)
Northern Velebit National Park
Norther Velebit National Park Croatia is a pristine wilderness area known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and rich geological features. Located in the northern part of the Velebit mountain range, the park is one of the least explored yet most captivating Croatia’s regions. Established in 1999, Northern Velebit National Park offers visitors an unspoiled natural environment, perfect for hiking, mountaineering, and nature photography.
One of the park's highlights is the famous Premižić Trail, a well-maintained hiking path that runs through some of the most scenic parts of Northern Velebit. This trail offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea on one side and the rugged peaks of the Velebit mountains on the other. Along the way, visitors can encounter rare plant species and diverse wildlife, including bears, wolves, and lynx, which thrive in this protected area.
The park is also home to some of Croatia's most famous caves, such as the Lukina Jama cave system, one of the deepest in the world. National Park Northern Velebit is a paradise for adventurers and nature enthusiasts seeking solitude and the raw beauty of Croatia's natural heritage. The park's remoteness adds to its appeal, offering an immersive wilderness experience.
Distance: 205 km
Time: 3 hours (by car)
